This year, 2024, marks our 25th year of hosting the quarterly WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contests! There are many copycats now but this is the home of the original!

Start-time for the next contest can be found HERE. You MUST sign up before start-time and there’s a 500-participant limit so don’t delay if you want to play!

In case you’re not familiar with our quarterly contest, this is how it works. On the date of the contest, at start-time, we send out the topic for that specific contest to all registered entrants via email, while also posting it on WritersWeekly.com.

Participants then have 24 hours to write and submit their stories. The stories “must deal with the topic in some way to qualify” and they must not exceed the pre-assigned word count. After reading the entries for each contest, we can see how difficult it is to come up with a unique plot when working with an assigned topic. But, inevitably, a few writers do manage to successfully break away from the pack.

Each contest is limited to 500 participants and they usually fill up so don’t delay if you want to participate in the next event!

1st prize: $300 + a book publishing package from BookLocker valued at $975
2nd prize: $250
3rd prize: $200
25+ honorable mentions

Entry fee is $5. You can see the complete list of prizes and sign up here:
https://24hourshortstorycontest.com/

COMPLETE LIST OF PAST CONTEST TOPICS AND LINKS TO ALL WINNERS!

OUR NEXT CONTEST – IS COMING SOON!

Fall 2024 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The thud was unmistakable. He slammed on the brakes, and jumped out. Nothing. Panning his eyes across a small field of corn, with red and orange leaves showering down from the nearby forest, he shivered in his thin jacket. He then turned back toward his truck, and starting blinking wildly…

Winners are HERE.

Summer 2024 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The fishing pier was long, and narrow. It was late and she had to hurry before someone saw her. She clutched it tight as tears streamed down her face. When she got to the end of the pier, she looked out over the water and, with all of her might, she threw it in.

Winners are HERE.

Spring 2024 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The cherry blossoms floated gently down, landing on their blanket. They had just started eating when a pigeon landed by their basket. They both stared wide-eyed as the bird walked closer, unafraid. That’s when they noticed a tiny scroll of paper attached to its right leg…

Winners are HERE.

Winter 2024 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She opened the door quickly and her dearest friend rushed in, bringing part of the blizzard through the entryway, and leaving slush on the floor.

“Good Heavens! Why in the world are you out in this mess?!”

While removing her coat, her friend looked left, and then right, and whispered, “I simply HAD to tell you this in person! I couldn’t risk nosey old Mildred listening in on the phone!”

Winners are HERE.

Fall 2023 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The old hag had insisted her locked diary be buried with her in the casket. Her white hair created a halo around her head in the simple pine box. The townsfolk were afraid to miss her funeral, on All Hallow’s Eve of all days! After all she’d done in her living years, who knew what she had in store for them after her passing?

Nobody noticed when one tiny girl reached into the casket, grabbed the tattered, leatherbound tome, and hid it inside her coat.

Winners are HERE.

Summer 2023 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

It was noon and every booth was full. Nobody was in a hurry to leave the air-conditioned diner. The rise and fall of buzzing cicadas outside signaled it was the high season. Residents in the small town earned enough money during the summer months to support their families all year.

Every conversation suddenly silenced when a thundering “Thud…BOOM!” sounded in the distance. Every eye turned toward the chalk painted windows. “Thud…BOOM!” It came again. There was no smoke in the distance and there were no highways or railroads for at least fifty miles. Several men started walking quickly towards the door. “Thud…BOOM!!”

Winners are HERE.

Spring 2023 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The farmer had never told anyone his secret. For decades, people came from miles around to admire his farm, and purchase his harvests from the shack by the road…the ones they could carry anyway. His blueberries were the size of apples, his apples the size of pumpkins, and his pumpkins the size of automobiles. The 150-foot tree in the meadow struggled to hold onto pecans the size of watermelons.

As he lay in bed, a spring breeze gently blew the curtains near his head. His only son was kneeling by his side, praying. The old man slowly lifted his hand, crooked his gnarled index finger, and started to whisper…

Winners are HERE.

Winter 2023 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She’d moved to the mountain to escape humanity so she was surprised one day to see large, bare footprints in the snow by the frozen pond. Curious, she took a plate of food, and left it there, complete with a fork. When she returned the next day, the plate and fork, completely clean, were where she’d left them. She kept leaving food, and retrieving the dishes, every day…until she’s spiked that high fever and her stomach revolted against her. On her third day in bed, she startled when she heard heavy footsteps on the front stoop…

Winners are HERE.

Fall 2022 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She had an ominous feeling in the pit of her stomach as she gazed attentively at the wearied old woman. Red and yellow leaves fell gently around them…silent witnesses to the occasion.

“It’s yours now,” the elder said as she handed over the thick stick, its knots and bumps matching her gnarled, arthritic knuckles. “But be warned,” the old woman added, “It can be used for good AND for evil.” The forest seemed to darken a bit as the ancient lady shuffled off.

Winners are HERE.

SUMMER 2022 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The brochure made the inn on the large, blue lake look very quaint. However, when they arrived, they were horrified to find a rundown wooden building with a “Vacancy” sign they were sure was never turned off. It was too late in the evening to turn around. They told the unkempt clerk at the desk that they’d be staying only one night. As they turned, keys in hand, he muttered, “Ya both need to know there are paths in these here woods. Whatever ya do, do NOT…”

Winners are HERE.

SPRING 2022 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

All the townsfolk said she’d not survive out here alone. Yet, here she was, working the soil for the second Spring. After a frigid winter, she could finally dig her fingers into the warming Earth. She patiently sifted clumps, making way for the tiny roots her carrots would put down as they sought ancient nutrients left there by their rotted brethren.

One clump did not feel like dirt at all. Puzzled, she grabbed hold of it, pulled, and…

Winners are HERE.

WINTER 2022 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

Twinkle lights clicked against the window’s exterior, threatening to break in the freezing wind. She was warm inside, too warm, unlike the people rushing by the small coffee shop. Her blunt fingernail repeatedly tapped the steaming cup, her second one, while her other hand clutched the badge hidden beneath her coat. The bell on the door kept chiming and her neck was starting to get sore from looking up…

Winners are HERE.

FALL 2021 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

A strong, biting wind sent vibrant yellow leaves and candy wrappers flying. The gray mansion with peeling paint appeared to be abandoned but muted lights appeared in the windows every night. The neighborhood children hurried by the old magician’s house with their lit pumpkins. Nobody dared open the rickety gate, and venture to the front door. If only they knew the real story…

Winners are HERE.

SUMMER 2021 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The campers next to them were noisy, rude, and downright obnoxious. She winced as more profanity echoed through the woods. Her husband had insisted that camping would be “educational and wholesome fun for the kids.” He’d sure gotten the educational part right!

That morning, they packed up their belongings to head to another campground. But, when they were about to pull out…

Winners are HERE.

SPRING 2021 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The three young boys were inseparable. Cool sunlight danced between rippling leaves as they traipsed through their favorite woods. Tommy saw a tree that was just right for climbing, ran to the trunk, and began shimmying his way up. His best friends busied themselves with the beginnings of a fort made of boughs and branches.

Suddenly, Tommy called out, “Oh my gosh! You guys won’t believe this!”

Winners are HERE.

WINTER 2021 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

Everybody else was driving south. Miles and miles of thousands of vehicles crawling, bumper to bumper, with many pulled over to the side. She grieved for the freezing people but she could not stop to help. She was the only person heading north on the freeway. Her chest tightened as she glanced at the small box she clenched in her hand. Miles and miles of empty lanes yet the snow kept getting heavier. Even with her snow tires, she didn’t know if she’d make in time for…

Winners are HERE.

FALL 2020 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She squinted at the dark yellow leaves blowing in through the broken window, scattering to the corners of the room. She’d never had any friends and she had her translucent white skin and pink eyes to thank for that. Never attending school didn’t help her social status, either. Yet, on this night, she found herself huddled on the freezing floor of an abandoned hunting shack, surrounded by girls she’d passed near the woods. She startled when the one of them leaned forward, and spat, “Truth or Dare?!”

Winners are HERE.

SUMMER 2020 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

Their trips to the drive-in movie theater were always the same. He would fall asleep and she would quietly leave the vehicle to get popcorn, Milk Duds, and soda. As she walked back with her goodies, the car-side speakers stopped and the screen went black, throwing the entire lot into darkness. She stopped, temporarily blinded. Then, the screen lit back up again, showing…

Winners are HERE.

SPRING 2020 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

Bluebonnets danced around her white skirt as she turned her face toward the sun. She only needed a few for the vase. Perhaps a little joy would soothe the inevitable unease at the table that night. It was always tense when meeting with her neighbors. She hoped enough time had passed. They had to know there was nothing she could do to change what had happened, right?

Winners are HERE.

WINTER 2020 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The townsfolk talked but she didn’t care. Day after day, she lugged her saw, a bucket, a homemade fishing pole, and bait across the frozen lake. Once there, she sat shivering while waiting for the telltale tug from a creature of the deep. This torturous task wasn’t for the fairer sex but what choice did she have? On that particular day, as clouds and a north wind rolled in from the mountains, she noticed two little boys at the edge of the lake, shouting and pointing…

Winners are HERE.

FALL 2019 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The two children were laughing as they tried to catch the red leaves raining down from the sugar maples. A cold wind brought the promise of frost by morning and she shivered as she tried to keep the children on the narrow path. A fall in the river would be dangerous this time of year. When she glanced up, she instinctively reached for the children’s hands. A man, whose untucked shirt was dripping with red, was approaching. As he got closer, he showed a toothless grin, tipped his hat politely, and said…

Winners are HERE.

SUMMER 2019 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

It was horribly hot but her husband insisted on sitting outside. The sun’s glare on the water left spots in the pigments of her eyes. Blinking, she watched a silhouette approach. The woman’s arms were crossed and her red fingernails contrasted sharply with her white, see-through dress. She stopped short in front of both of them. The man’s wife craned her neck as her husband stood up. She then bowed her head, whispering, “Not again…”

Winners are HERE.

SPRING 2019 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The air pressure changed suddenly and the wind began to wail. Yawning to pop her ears, she glanced out the cabin window, and saw dark purple storm clouds racing over the hill. It looked like a bad one. Remembering the puppy was still outside, she ran to the door, and called him. He didn’t appear. She quickly walked outside, and found him frantically digging at the dirt near the rickety fence. She called him again and he looked back, whined, and continued digging. A blast of ice cold air slapped her in the face and then…

Winners are HERE.

WINTER 2019 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

He should have found the first one by now! He walked faster. Father had told him to take care of his mother and sister. He had to check the traps! His head turned left, right, and then left again. Identical snow-laden branches stretched far into the darkening forest. Trying not to cry, he sniffed, and then stopped, his nose in the air. Was that smoke? He squinted through the trees, and saw…

Winners are HERE.

FALL 2018 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She lit an old candle in the carved turnip, and placed it by the cracked window, causing shadows to dance across the log walls. She squinted through the glass. A cold wind was pushing dying red leaves across the stone path. It was getting late!

She’d heard whispers of a mandatory town meeting. Dressing in layers, she hoped to ward off the cold, and the gazes of her unfriendly neighbors. She knew what they would be discussing tonight…

Winners are HERE.

SUMMER 2018 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The ice cold lemonade was her only defense against the hot sun overhead. She shielded her eyes, and watched. Across the street, the phenomenon continued, just as it had every summer afternoon for as long as she could remember. The small store, with its candy cane awning and large window display of souvenirs, attracted a steady stream of tourists. Sweaty, sunburned bodies entered through the single door, but nobody ever came out…

Winners are HERE.

SPRING 2018 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

Cell phones all over the county simultaneously shrilled that morning. Residents quickly scanned the emergency alert, and then raced to gather their family members, and prepare. Meanwhile, in the national forest, there was no cell phone access. The small family camping on the peaceful, meandering river had just put out their breakfast campfire and the children were laughing excitedly as they donned their hiking gear… 

Winners are HERE.

WINTER 2018 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

Even with the heater on high, and wearing her snow pants, parka, mittens and scarf, she was shaking from the cold. Her shoulders tensed as she she peered over the steering wheel, dodging black ice and snow banks. She knew she’d picked the wrong time of year to pull this off but it was too late to change her plans now. Her mind briefly wandered as she fantasized about her destination. And, that’s when she misjudged a curve.

As she quickly rounded a curve, she was instantly pulled out of her reverie. A tiny, shivering boy was sitting alone by the side of the road…

Winners are HERE.

Fall 2017 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She wasn’t too comfortable letting the children go trick or treating by themselves but her son was almost 11 now. Surely he could keep an eye on his little sister, right? She heard them laughing as they stepped into the chilly night, with the crackling of orange and red leaves under their feet. Less than an hour later, she heard someone at the door once again, and expected to see ghosts and goblins from the neighborhood. However, it was her children. Back so soon? The children silently walked past, handing her their candy bags for inspection. She walked to the dining room table, and dumped the contents of her daughter’s bag on the table. And, that’s when she saw…

Winners are HERE.

SUMMER 2017 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

It was supposed to be the summer job of a lifetime, working as a chef at an upscale “summer camp” for adults. But, the air conditioner was broken again. After closing, the stale outdoor air brought little relief. The path to the cabins housing seasonal employees was dark but short. She stopped in her tracks when she came across one of the windows. With her pupils dilating, she couldn’t look away… 

Winners are HERE.

SPRING 2017 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The wind suddenly picked up as she looked out from the porch. A wall of dark clouds was pushing across the horizon and a light chop had developed on the lake, gently rocking the tiny rowboat tied to the dock. The changing seasons always brought unpredictable weather. Just as she was about to turn toward the door, movement in the water caught her attention. She squinted and then her eyes opened wide. Rushing down the stairs, she kicked off her shoes, and raced to untie the boat…

Winners are HERE.

WINTER 2017 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

Holding tightly to her valise, she glanced over her shoulder before stepping onto the platform. Dark blue clouds stretched from the prairie to the heavens. The blizzard was coming fast and the conductor was urgently pleading for everyone to get on board so they could depart before the storm arrived. As she placed her foot on the first step, anxiety prickled the back of her neck. She couldn’t shake the feeling that she’d forgotten something… 

Winners are HERE.

FALL 2016 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The dark water racing under the bridge contrasted sharply with the yellow and orange leaves riding atop the ripples. Balding maple trees shadowed the riverbank while the remains of a cornfield rustled violently in the cold wind. Standing on the cobblestones by his trusty wooden cart, he shivered. It was going to be a bad winter but they were well prepared. Suddenly, a strong gust brought the sound of maniacal laughter. He stepped quickly to the back of the cart, and threw back the burlap cover…

Winners are HERE.

SUMMER 2016 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

Her shoes clip-clopped along the concrete like a sticky metronome. Approaching a hot dog vendor, she said, “What types of mustard do you have today?”

He responded, “I had a pure-breed Schnauzer but now he only has three legs.” He then handed her a sweating bottle of water before turning away.

A few feet away, a metal newspaper dispenser reflected the harsh sunlight. She stepped closer, blinking at the headline…

Winners are HERE.

SPRING 2016 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

A brisk breeze pushed through the hatchway, cooling her sunburned cheeks. Saltwater lapped at the hull. A mariner’s lullaby. She smiled, pondering her perfect life. No people. No stress. Just the occasional storm, and sojourns to the mainland for provisions. Just as her tired eyes closed, violent knocking and shouting erupted on her starboard side…

Winners are HERE.

WINTER 2016 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

A heavy blanket of snow illuminated the night while cold flakes pecked at her chapped cheeks. As she took another deep breath, her ears winced at the broken silence. Shivering continuously now, she trudged through the drifts, avoiding obscure stumps and black, low-hanging branches. The item she dragged behind her left a noticeable trail but she knew it would be deeply buried by the storm come morning…

Winners are HERE.

2015

FALL 2015- WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The barren, tan corn stalks behind her snapped in the cold evening breeze, the only sound louder than the dry, fiery red leaves swirling around her tiny, shivering bare feet. She’d lost her bearings again and she hoped the dinner bell would ring soon. A gray tree with endless arms and fingers, devoid of any remaining foliage, loomed before her. She gazed at the odd markings on the trunk, which appeared to outline a hand-cut door of sorts. And, as she stared, it opened…

Winners are HERE.

SPRING 2015 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

Sitting on the porch steps, she stared, ignoring the scent of lilacs from the overgrown bush. Her heart lurched when she saw the mail truck approaching, dust in its wake. Would it arrive today? The ancient mail carrier took his time handing her some envelopes and, finally, a large package in brown paper. As he drove away, she dropped the envelopes on the porch, and walked quickly around the side of the house, praying nobody inside saw…

Winners are HERE.

WINTER 2015 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

A blizzard raged outside, battering the cozy ski lodge. Merry skiers drank hot chocolate and hot toddies, excited about the fresh white powder they’d be conquering tomorrow. Smiling, she took another sip, her eyes briefly wandering from the man sitting before her, to a different gentleman across the room. He was sitting alone, and staring at…

Winners are HERE.

2014

FALL 2014 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The cold wind battered the fortune teller’s wagon, threatening an early frost. The girls climbed down, simultaneously giggling and shivering about the message the old witch had delivered. As their feet pushed through the red and orange leaves, a shadow emerged from the gnarled maple trees. A bent man in tattered layers stepped in front of the girls, leaned over, and put his crooked finger to his lips…

Winners are HERE.

SUMMER 2014 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She rolled her eyes as another one of her cabin mates tried to stifle sobs. She couldn’t believe she had to stay at this horrible camp all summer! Her stomach growled. As she stepped toward her trunk for a forbidden snack, she tripped on a loose board. Curious, she leaned over to peek between the cracks, and saw…

Winners are HERE.

SPRING 2014 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The sailboat was anchored just a few yards away and the sun had set. With the campfire slowing dying, and their bellies full of fresh fish, the lovers decided to go skinny dipping. As they descended, hand in hand, into the warm water, he felt something slip around his ankle and pull…hard.

Winners are HERE.

WINTER 2014 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

He walked among the market stalls, pretending to ignore the whispering and giggling women. His relaxed demeanor, handsome features, and ready smile meant no female in the town missed his weekly sermons and the church’s coffers were overflowing of late.

Feeling a touch on his sleeve, he turned and his smile disappeared. Looking first left and right, he angrily spat, “I told you to never speak to me again!”

She blinked, her long lashes brushing her cheeks, and said, “But, I need to talk to you.” Leaning closer, she paused, and lowered her voice. “You see, I’m…”

Winners are HERE.

2013

FALL 2013 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She wiped her hands on her apron, peering out the window. Red and orange leaves hurried by as the cold autumn wind battered the small cabin. The girl should have been back from the errand by now. At that moment, she saw the flying, fiery red braids. The devil’s mark on her right cheek, a constant reminder, was clearly visible, even at dusk. The girl, breathless, burst through the wooden door.

“Ma! Come quickly!!”

Winners are HERE.

SUMMER 2013 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

Holding the sleeping infant on her shoulder, she gazed peacefully at her surroundings. Tourists wandered in and out of stores, an old man was setting up his easel by the lakeshore, and a child’s balloon escaped into the breeze. A moment later, she looked up as shouts startled her and the baby. Everybody was running in her direction…

Winners are HERE.

SPRING 2013 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She sat in her favorite spot on the porch of the weathered beach house, the salty air sticking to her skin, the oncoming storm blowing sand across her bare feet. The crisp envelope bent beneath her fingers as she laid it on her lap, and reached for the pen in her dress pocket…

Winners are HERE.

WINTER 2013 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

Hearing a light thump outside, she walked to the front door and opened it slowly. Wind and snow swirled and the cold lashed her cheeks. By her feet she discovered a small pot with tiny white flowers. She recognized it as a Galanthus nivalis. Footprints in the snow led to and from the porch and a note tied to the slender stalk fluttered in the icy air…

Winners are HERE.

2012

FALL 2012 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

Their small sacks heavy with apples, they huddled on the cobblestone path, not sure if they could make it back in time. Bright orange and yellow leaves rushed across their shoes and they shivered, their cloaks no match for the approaching dusk. Their eyes widened as the town’s striking clock began to issue its warning…

Winners are HERE.

SUMMER 2012 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

Growing up on a fishing boat docked in this small northwest coastal town brought stares from townspeople and jeers from classmates. She desperately wanted to escape but, with competitors driving down charter prices, she knew her dad would never be able to afford a replacement. As she sliced open the belly of yet another Salmon, her eyes widened and she dropped her knife…

Winners are HERE.

SPRING 2012 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

With blistered, salty skin and matted hair, they were down to their last sips of fresh water. A recreational day at sea had turned into a fight for continued existence. Slumped on the bow, searching for any hint of a breeze to sooth her burning face, her eyes widened when she noticed something fast approaching in the distance…

Winners are HERE.

WINTER 2012 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

Blue ice stretched to the horizon, fading into the blinding rays of another waning winter sun. She shivered violently as the shifting mass groaned under her feet. She instinctively glanced down, looking for cracks under the transparent sheen. Suddenly, she tensed and dropped to her knees. Desperately clawing at the ice, she screamed…

Winners are HERE.

2011

FALL 2011 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She was standing on the porch of a sagging cabin with bright yellow leaves collecting around her feet. As the cold wind billowed her skirt, she shivered and wondered if the owner of the purse really lived here. She knocked timidly and the door quickly opened, revealing a tiny girl holding a hideous, bald doll…

Winners are HERE.

SUMMER 2011 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

Strong waves pounded the dark sand just a few yards away. Hidden by beach grass, they embraced, relieved to finally escape their wedding guests. His poetic whispers suddenly ceased as he leaned back, and said, “There’s something I need to tell you…”

Winners are HERE.

SPRING 2011 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The fruit vendor smiled at her through sightless eyes, enjoying the warm breeze and salty air. During casual banter with his customers, he seemed to remember the smallest details, even ones they couldn’t remember sharing with him in the past. The girl had been coming to his stand daily for as long as she could remember. As she turned to leave, she patted his hand and said, “I’ll see tomorrow morning, friend.”

Still smiling, he replied, “No, you won’t…”

Winners are HERE.

WINTER 2011 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The feet of her pajamas offered no protection as she trudged through the deep drifts. She had been crying throughout her ordeal and, when she lowered her head for protection from the wind, she almost missed a light piercing through the trees. As she instinctively turned in that direction, she heard a train whistle…

Winners are HERE.

2010

FALL 2010 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

He stood on his tiptoes at the small cabin’s rear window, staring out at the deepening dusk, sensing the excitement in the town’s air. A cold wind seeped through an old crack, tickling his chubby cheek, and a whirlwind of red and orange leaves made him laugh. The corn stalks rustled in the brisk breeze, waving to him. He waved back.

Behind him, Mommy was busy in the small kitchen and delicious smells wafted his way, making his tiny tummy grumble with glee. She was making lots of treats to temp the town’s children. After all, she’d promised him a new brother or sister…

Winners are HERE.

SUMMER 2010 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The young girl pulled another pair of pants from the pile of laundry. Between the hot black iron and the fireplace, it was stifling in the small kitchen. The only relief she could hope for was a small breeze coming from the window overlooking the distant waves. Her arm started moving methodically once again and, just as she started to fantasize about a forbidden swim, the iron stopped at a bump in the pocket…

Winners are HERE.

SPRING 2010 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

He’d had a lifelong weakness for football, golf, and younger women but none of that mattered anymore. The vultures were just outside, already fighting over the best morsels. He hadn’t moved or spoken in weeks but, as she reached over to touch the thin vein slowly pulsating in his hand, his eyes flashed open and he said…

Winners are HERE.

WINTER 2010 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

From her lap, his shiny black eyes stared up at her as she admired his permanent red smile. Fingering his tiny overalls, she pictured the little ones’ faces, pressed against the icy windowpanes, waiting for her to arrive with another basket of her lifelike, homemade gifts. The last strand of hair was finally in place. As she gently inserted the needle to tie a knot, he lurched in her hand and a high-pitched voice said…

Winners are HERE.

2009

FALL 2009 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

Weeks of obsessive tending and gentle turning ensured a blue ribbon for his biggest pumpkin next weekend. His chest puffed with impending pride as he fantasized about the envious stares of the other town folk, especially that pretty, stuck-up woman next door, who always looked through him, not at him.

The cold wind started again and he shivered, watching the sky darken too quickly. As bright, painted leaves rained on his crop, he instinctively turned his head toward an infant’s cry. At the top of the hill, under the old Maple, his stuck-up neighbor was shielding a bundle from the wind, fumbling with her blouse…

Winners are HERE.

SUMMER 2009 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She was licking the cotton candy crystals from her fingertips when she felt the first raindrops. She joined the other visitors in racing for shelter as the drops turned into a summer afternoon torrent. She ducked into the nearest red-and-white striped tent, almost running into a woman with caked make-up and large rings on every finger. As the girl started to offer an apologetic smile, the woman looked up. Her wrinkled face registered instant recognition and she screamed, “It’s you!”

Winners are HERE.

SPRING 2009 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

“Silly Scilla, silly Scilla,” the young girl sang, as she pushed another tiny blue flower into her hair. She knew she would have to remove these adornments before they returned to the house. When Mamm gently cleared her throat, the girl remembered the tiny celery seeds that had been spilling out of her apron all morning.

She sighed and settled down in an empty row, digging her bare toes into the cool soil. She froze when her foot bumped something hard. Scooping the dirt aside with her fingers, she found a tiny, tattered purse. Glancing at her mother to ensure her secret treasure was still a secret, she opened the clasp…

Winners are HERE.

WINTER 2009 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The small wood stove kept the tiny chapel warm and their snowy footprints had already melted by the door. The dim light from the candle nubs played on the faces of the minister and his wife, and made the bride and groom’s shadows dance on the empty pews.

The minister’s monotone continued, “If any of you can show just cause why they may not lawfully be married, speak now; or else for ever hold your peace.”

All four turned abruptly when they heard a cough by the door…

Winners are HERE.

2008

FALL 2008 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The cast iron pot was blackened and warped, but had provided years of delicious concoctions. Movement caught her eye through the cracked window. She turned her head, but saw only red, orange, yellow and brown leaves racing by in the fierce wind. She shivered as cold air leaked through the window’s cracks, and leaned down to stoke the fire.

Squinting at her recipe book, she scratched the mole on her nose. The fourth ingredient was always the hardest to find…

Winners are HERE.

SUMMER 2008 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The bells on the door were still echoing as she stepped further into the old toy store. The owner winked at her and turned back to his black and white television set. She reached under the rack on the back wall and pulled it out. It was just where she’d left it last week. She approached the counter and put the item down.

He turned to her, grabbed the item with surprise, and said, “This is NOT for sale…”

Winners are HERE.

SPRING 2008 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She thought she heard water trickling over rocks and turned toward the sound, ignoring the thorns that sliced her short, chubby legs. She sat down, drinking as fast as she could. She jumped up when she once again heard all those strangers calling her name, somewhere behind her, higher up. She wasn’t sure. She quickly stepped back and her hair got tangled on a low branch. She wrenched it free, her panic having dulled all pain hours ago. The forest canopy swallowed her as she sobbed and stumbled, repeatedly whispering to herself…

Winners are HERE.

WINTER 2008 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She always kept the object safe and close to her. Mama made her repeat the promise over and over again during those last days. “I will never show it to a living soul. I will never show it to a living soul.”

She cried about Mama less now, not as much as she had before. She was missing Mama now as she did each night when she removed her scuffed shoes. She then carefully peeled the gray sock off her foot, and waited for the familiar object to fall out. Nothing happened. Panicked, she quickly turned her sock inside-out. It was gone.

Winners are HERE.

2007

FALL 2007 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The vivid hues of the foliage seemed to bring the painting to life. Intrigued, she leaned closer. Blowing rapidly down the cobblestone road, the artist’s yellow leaves were a dazzling gold, the red leaves burned a deep, unnatural maroon, more beautiful than reality, and the dark orange leaves faded around their edges, as if they couldn’t decide which color they wanted to be. She peered closer still, desperately wishing to be there, in that place so far away, and so long ago. Her senses seemed to respond to her subconscious desires and she blinked back startled tears when she suddenly inhaled the scent of wood smoke, felt a cold wind stirring her hair, and saw a movement in the distance…

Winners are HERE.

SUMMER 2007 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

Mosquitoes buzzed, but kept their distance as the aroma of insect repellent overpowered the smoke coming from the dying campfire. The counselor was getting to the good part of the ghost story and the campers were all quiet, straining to hear the raspy whispers of the protagonist. The sudden sound of footsteps approaching on the pine needle carpet silenced the group. All heads turned simultaneously and the little girls screamed when a man emerged from the tree line, dressed in torn clothing and carrying a pack. The pack started to move as an infant’s startled cry joined the panicked chorus…

Winners are HERE.

SPRING 2007 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She could hear the buoy bell ringing in the distance but it was too dark to see anything beyond the receding foamy water. She shivered as the wind picked up, knowing a late-season Nor’easter would hit in the next few hours, and knowing this was her last chance. She raised her arm and threw the glass bottle into the darkness…

Winners are HERE.

WINTER 2007 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

It always happened when the room was too quiet. Random phrases were once again racing in and out of her mind. Black forest, red velvet, white wine, blue cheese, hash browns… Her hands tightened into fists and she furiously shook her head, trying to dispel the obsessive thoughts that assailed her daily.

She wiped her hands across her apron as she turned to the pot that was now boiling over. When she was putting the hot pan in the sink, she noticed a movement in the reflection of the window. She turned quickly, but her guests were still sitting motionless, right where she’d left them…

Winners are HERE.

2006

FALL 2006 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She turned away from the crisp fall wind, shivering as her long skirt billowed wide and her hair slapped her face. She’d lost her prayer kapp again. Mamm would be real mad. Dry leaves were racing past, heading in the same direction. She’d always wondered where all those leaves ended up, year after year. Some were already brown. That made her sad. The dark orange ones reminded her of Mamm’s pumpkin cookies and she turned toward home. She walked slowly, fingering the package hidden in her apron and thinking about the Bishop’s visit yesterday, when he’d said she was too simple-minded to care for a baby…

Winners are HERE.

SUMMER 2006 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The group of four tipsy teenagers were playing yet another loud game of Mixin’ Fixion in the back of the commuter bus. After her contribution, the youngest girl turned her face toward the breeze coming through the window, enjoying the canopy of trees along the country road. Up ahead, she noticed a man flagging down the bus while slinging a large black bag over his shoulder. As he stepped onto the bus, he turned his head toward the bag, slapped it, and yelled, “…

Winners are HERE.

SPRING 2006 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

He turned the knob on the short-wave radio, trying desperately to hear any word from the outside. It had taken them three days to arrive at their mountain cabin on foot and they were relieved that no squatters had taken possession of their property in the mayhem.

While his wife and daughter made an inventory of the scant amount of food they’d left in the cabinets last summer, his son hovered near his elbow, also waiting in silence. He dialed slower and everyone froze when the room suddenly erupted with static and a child’s voice…

Winners are HERE.

WINTER 2006 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She shivered and wrapped her arm more tightly around her little brother. The grocery cart that held their tattered possessions was now full of cans and they steered the rusty contraption toward the local recycling shack. Suddenly, a man in a black coat and hat stepped into their path, thrust a piece of paper into her brother’s bare fist, and hurried away. The two children looked at each other and then at the piece of paper…

Winners are HERE.

2005

FALL 2005 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The pristine snow on the hill was marred only by the bright orange and red leaves that had fallen in the night wind. The early snowstorm had pushed fall into winter, but fall was still fighting for recognition. She couldn’t dwell on the beauty around her, however, because she had only moments to decipher the etchings on the gravestone…

Winners are HERE.

SUMMER 2005 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The ocean water was warm, not offering much relief from the relentless heat. It was July 23rd, an anniversary she always honored by returning to the spot where her life had changed so dramatically. She stepped on something hard and reached down. She froze when she realized what she held in her hands…

Winners are HERE.

SPRING 2005 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

When he bent down, he discovered a large book with gold lettering lying on its side behind the others. He pulled it from its hiding place, dislodging other books as he did so. When he opened the cover, he discovered that a crude, square area had been cut out of the pages…

Winners are HERE.

WINTER 2005 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She screamed, “No! Did you hear me?! I said no!!”

She slapped him hard but he had already catapulted out of reality…

Winners are HERE.

2004

FALL 2004 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The red, orange and yellow leaves traveling the river contrasted sharply against the black water. Distant thunder and a bitter wind promised an early winter storm. She shivered and walked faster, ignoring the muffled diatribe coming from the burlap sack in her arms.

Winners are HERE.

SUMMER 2004 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

It had taken him almost an hour to climb over the rocks to the hidden beach. His metal detector was strapped to his back and he didn’t think many other treasure hunters would go to this much effort. It was low tide, so he started at the water line and began sweeping the detector back and forth. On his fifth pass, the detector gave a strong beep…

Winners are HERE.

SPRING 2004 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She tipped the deliveryman, closed the door, and excitedly pulled the glittering ribbon from the gold box. Inside, she was puzzled to find four fortune cookies nestled in gold satin. She picked one up, cracked it open, and pulled out the white slip of paper. “What goes around comes around.” She frowned and opened another one. “As you sow, so shall you reap.” She started to tremble as she read the third. “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” A bead of sweat trickled past her temple as she reached for the fourth…

Winners are HERE.

WINTER 2004 – WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She looked behind her once again before she pushed open the largest door in the house. She only had a few seconds to search her employer’s office or she risked detection. Her eyes were immediately drawn to a handwritten note sitting in the middle of the desk…

Winners are HERE.

2003

FALL 2003 WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

“I must have taken a wrong turn after the river, Dad. The pavement stopped awhile back and there’s nowhere to turn around.”

“Hold on, honey, I’m trying to find it on the map.”

“You’re starting to break up some.”

“I don’t see any dirt roads in that area. I’m hearing another voice on the line. It’s like a whisper, can you hear it?”

“No, I’m just hearing you and static.”

“hang… now… mine…”

“Did you hear that?!”

“Did I hear what, Dad?”

Winners are HERE.

SUMMER 2003 WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

It always looked so easy on television! But she had been teasing the door lock with a bobby pin for almost 10 minutes and it didn’t show any signs of opening. The ocean surf pounding in the background drowned out any clicks that she thought she was supposed to be hearing. Suddenly, the door flew open, she fell forward with grunt, and there stood…

Winners are HERE.

SPRING 2003 WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She felt silly as the man with the odd accent looked down, making benign statements to her palm. Why had she allowed her sister to drag her to this psychic’s convention?

She couldn’t help but roll her eyes as he completed the reading with a dramatic wave of his arms. However, his final words shocked her…

Winners are HERE.

WINTER 2003 WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

Curled up in bed against the screaming blizzard outside, she tapped the remote control and the television cast a pale light against the dark room. As the screen warmed into focus, she sat upright and screamed. There he was! On television! But he’d been dead for 10 years!

Winners are HERE.

2002

FALL 2002 WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

“Double, double, toil and trouble, fire burn and cauldron bubble.” That was how witches did it, according to Shakespeare. But now she was investigating modern witchcraft and had found a woman who agreed to take her to a secret meeting of a real coven nearby. “This should be a hoot!” she whispered to herself. “What to wear, what to wear?”

Winners are HERE.

SUMMER 2002 WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

It suddenly came to him in a flash, a complete insight, the whole plan, every detail, and he saw that it would work. “The perfect crime!” he thought, “And there is no way anyone can tie it to me. All I have to do is take care of one little detail first.”

Winners are HERE.

SPRING 2002 WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

The cryptic message had enough personal information about her that she knew she had to take it seriously. The last part said, “Be at the corner of Third and Main at 10:30 with the recipe and the child or you will be sorry.”

She looked at her watch. It was already 10:00!

Winners are HERE.

WINTER 2002 WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

It all went back to that one stupid mistake he made in high school. One stupid mistake! ‘I would give anything to live that day again!’ he vowed.

There was a shimmer in the air and a subtle movement, as if the world just shifted to a lower gear. It seemed to get dark and, when light returned, he found himself sitting in a desk, his sophomore biology teacher asking him a question.

Winners are HERE.

2001

FALL 2001 WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She shivered violently while running through the cold night air. Orange, yellow and red leaves crackled beneath her tiny shoes when she stepped on them. Why hadn’t her father picked her up from school as he promised? Now she’d be late for her own Halloween Party…

Winners are HERE.

SUMMER 2001 WritersWeekly.com 24-Hour Short Story Contest Topic

She walked quickly through the dark streets of downtown and noticed that the only lights illuminating the entire block were from the old barber shop which had been vacant for years. Even the barber pole was slowly spinning in the dark. When she got to the window and looked inside, she was shocked to see a myriad of couples…waltzing…

Winners are HERE.

DON’T MISS THE NEXT CONTEST! Sign up today RIGHT HERE.

Got questions about Print On Demand and Self-publishing? Ask Angela Hoy.

About The Author

Angela Hoy is the publisher of WritersWeekly.com, the author of 19 books, and the co-owner of BookLocker.com (one of the original POD publishers that still gets books to market in less than a month), PubPreppers.com (print and ebook design for authors who truly want to self-publish), and Abuzz Press (the publishing co-op that charges no setup fees).

Angela has lived and traveled across the U.S. with her kids in an RV, settled in a river-side home in Bradenton, FL, and lived on a 52 ft Irwin sailboat. Angela now resides on a mountaintop in Northwest Georgia, where she plans to spend the rest of her days bird watching, gardening, hiking, and taking in all of the amazing sunrises.

WritersWeekly.com - the free marketing ezine for writers, which features new paying markets and freelance job listings every Wednesday.

BookLocker.com - According to attorney Mark Levine, author of The Fine Print, BookLocker is: "As close to perfection as you're going to find in the world of ebook and POD publishing. The ebook royalties are the highest I've ever seen, and the print royalties are better than average. BookLocker understands what new authors experience, and have put together a package that is the best in the business. You can't go wrong here. Plus, they're selective and won't publish any manuscript just because it's accompanied by a check. Also, the web site is well trafficked. If you can find a POD or epublisher with as much integrity and dedication to selling authors' books, but with lower POD publishing fees, please let me know."

Abuzz Press offers FAST and FREE book publication, but only accepts a small percentage of submissions, and only works with U.S. authors.

PubPreppers.com - "We Prep, You Publish!" Print and ebook design for authors who truly want to self-publish. Offers formatting and design services only, and then provides simple instructions for authors on where to sign up to have the print and ebook editions printed/listed/sold. Cut out the middle man. Keep 100% of what bookstores pay for your book!

Angela's POD Secrets Revealed Series can be found HERE.

Have a POD Book with another publisher? See if BookLocker can give you a better deal. (BookLocker offers "disgruntled author discounts" to those who want to move from other POD services.)

See BookLocker's publishing packages HERE.

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Angela is the creator of the Original 24-Hour Short Story Contest!
https://24hourshortstorycontest.com/

Read More Of Angela's Articles HERE